nuclear energy

Local leaders are urging state lawmakers to save Ohio’s nuclear plants in fear of the impact those shutdowns would have on their communities.

The state’s two nuclear plants could be on the verge of closing without a bailout bill currently in the state legislature.

Jamie Beier Grant is with the Ottawa County Improvement Corporation, the same county as the Davis-Besse Nuclear Plant. She says other cities, such as Zion, Illinois, saw big tax increases to make up for the loss of revenue from their nuclear plants.

The CEO of one of Ohio’s largest energy providers made a rare appearance before state lawmakers, pleading for nuclear plant subsidies. This push comes as the company is nearing a major decision.

FirstEnergy CEO Chuck Jones went before the Ohio Senate, saying subsidies would prop up their two struggling nuclear plants. If passed, FirstEnergy customers would see about a $5 increase to their monthly electric bills.

One of Ohio’s largest utilities is once again going to state lawmakers for a way to get a boost for its struggling power plants.

FirstEnergy wants state lawmakers to give it the ability to charge its customers about $5 more a month. The utility’s Jennifer Young says the company's struggling nuclear plants deserve a subsidy for emitting zero carbon.

“It’s the best interest of communities in the state, and while there may be a small premium for that we think that is the right thing to do.”